Should I Stay In a Vacation Rental or a Resort in Cozumel?
Planning a trip to Cozumel? Picture this: You’re lounging in your private beachfront villa, sipping on a fresh coconut you just bought from a local vendor, with the sounds of the ocean as your personal soundtrack. Sounds pretty dreamy, right? That could be your reality if you opt for a vacation rental instead of a resort.
Vacation rentals can save you money, give you more space, and offer a truly authentic island experience. But hey, I get it! Resorts have their perks, too. So how do you decide which is best for you? Let’s break it down!
1. It’s More Affordable (and You Get More!)
Let’s be real — traveling can get expensive, especially when you’re eyeing those all-inclusive resorts. But here’s the good news: vacation rentals in Cozumel can save you a ton of cash while giving you way more space and amenities.
Imagine getting a spacious, fully equipped condo or villa for the same price (or even less!) than a tiny hotel room. Whether you’re bringing the whole family or just your favorite travel buddy, you’ll get more bang for your buck. Plus, with a kitchen at your disposal, you can whip up fresh tacos instead of eating out for every meal — saving even more!
Our condo, for example, is right next door to a resort and is half the price. Same ocean view, bigger pool, more privacy, and some peace and quiet — all for a fraction of the cost! It’s truly a win-win.
2. Get a Real Taste of Cozumel’s Culture
Staying in a vacation rental lets you experience the island like a local. Pop down the street for fresh pastries, discover hidden taquerias, and chat with neighbors who know all the best spots. It’s your chance to step off the beaten tourist path and soak up the real Cozumel vibe.
When you stay at We’ve Gone Coastal Cozumel, you’re not just getting a place to sleep — you’re getting your own slice of island life, with local recommendations, insider tips, and plenty of room to relax and make memories.
Getting to expose our kids to the culture on the island has been one of the best parts of visiting Cozumel! We experience real grocery stores, local restaurants and meet incredible people! The Island is full of culture that so many tourists miss out on because they never leave the resort.
When a Resort Might Be the Better Choice
I’ll be honest — sometimes a resort is the right fit! If you want full room service, daily organized activities, all-inclusive dining, entertainment, and childcare, a resort can make your vacation totally stress-free. They’re great for big group trips, destination weddings, or when you just want everything in one place with no planning required.
Here are a few Cozumel resorts people love:
Best All-Inclusive in central San Miguel: Cozumel Palace - Great for families, top-notch service, and activities for all ages.
Best All-Inclusive with easy access to diving: Iberostar Cozumel: A diver’s dream with on-site dive shops and beachfront bungalows.
3. A One-of-a-Kind Experience
Welcome To Miami beach bar on the “wild-side” uninhabited side of the island
Every vacation rental stay is unique. From sipping your morning coffee while watching the sunrise over the ocean, to grilling fresh fish for dinner while your family gathers around — it’s about making your trip feel personal. No crowded buffet lines, no fighting for pool chairs — just the freedom to do Cozumel your way.
No crowded pool decks, no set schedules — just the freedom to do Cozumel your way. From homemade breakfast on your patio to sunset happy hours with your toes in the sand, you’ll make memories you simply won’t find in a one-size-fits-all resort.
Both our Condo and our Beach Villa offer unique experiences- one is in the heart of the city and the other more remote and quiet. One allows you easy access to bars and restaurants and the other is a peaceful and quiet getaway. Both offer incredible views, tons of space (3 and 4 bedrooms) and a unique experience that others who stay solely in resorts aren’t getting.
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4. Access to Hidden Gems
Here’s where it gets really exciting. When you stay in a vacation rental, you’re free to explore Cozumel like a local. That means discovering hidden beaches, trying out hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and maybe even stumbling upon a secret snorkeling spot. Resorts often keep you tied to their amenities, but with a vacation rental, the entire island is your playground. You’ll have the chance to create your own adventures—no itinerary needed.
Staying at We’ve Gone Coastal Cozumel vacation rentals, is like having your own personal concierge service. For example, with our incredible relationships with local tour guides and companies we refuse to accept referral fees - This ultimately saves you money. We have selected the operators that we believe provide the best experience and service and want to share them with you because we think they are great at what they do! We are able to give you suggestions and provide access to experiences that are unique and truly the best for our guests.
🌴 Explore Cozumel Like a Local
Discover the ultimate guide to Cozumel’s hidden gems, top beaches, and the best local spots. Whether you’re here for relaxation or adventure, we've got you covered.
Start Your Adventure5. More Room to Stretch Out
Stunning view from the 5th-floor balcony of the condo, overlooking the pool and crystal-clear ocean in Cozumel
One of the biggest perks of a vacation rental? Space! Resorts often mean sharing small rooms, busy hallways, and crowded pools. With a vacation rental, you’ll have plenty of room to relax and just be.
Want to sprawl out with your family and friends? Have the kids nap in one room while you read a book in another? Or cook a late-night snack without tiptoeing down a hotel hallway? That’s the beauty of having an entire villa or condo to yourself. It’s your own island home - with room to stretch out and truly unwind.
Our Condo is 4 bed and 4 bath and our villa is 3 bed and 3 bath and both provide ensuite bathrooms in every bedroom! That leaves tons of space for larger families or groups of friends to travel and not feel like they are on top of each other!
6. Luxury Without the Price Tag
Just because you’re skipping the resort doesn’t mean you have to skip the pampering. Many vacation rentals come with access to luxe services like in-home massages, private chefs, and even personal tour guides. Imagine getting a massage while listening to the ocean waves or having a chef prepare a fresh seafood dinner in your own kitchen. You can live it up without draining your wallet, and that’s what we call a win-win!
Final Thoughts - Which One’s Right for You?
So… should you stay in a vacation rental or a resort in Cozumel? It all depends on your travel style! Resorts can be a fun pick when you want everything planned for you — endless buffets, daily activities, and all-inclusive perks. But if you crave privacy, more space, local flavor, and a one-of-a-kind adventure, a vacation rental might be your perfect match.
When you stay at We’ve Gone Coastal Cozumel, you don’t just get a beautiful place to stay — you get the inside scoop on hidden gems, trusted local recommendations, and a friendly host who treats you like family.
If you want to hear from a real family who loves to travel to our rentals, check out this post over at We’re Just Winging it Blog!
When a Resort Might Be a Good Fit, Too
“Sometimes an all-inclusive resort is just what you need — zero planning, daily activities, unlimited dining, and kids’ clubs can be a lifesaver for families or wedding groups. If you’re curious, here are a couple Cozumel resorts people love:
Cozumel Palace - Check Rates — best for families, top-notch service, and right in central San Miguel.
Iberostar Cozumel – Check Rates— a diver’s dream with on-site dive shop and beachfront bungalows.
But if you’re like us and crave a bit more space, privacy, and local flavor, you’ll love coming ‘home’ to We’ve Gone Coastal.”
Ready to Live Like a Local?
Skip the crowds and say yes to sandy toes, salty breezes, and sunsets from your private patio. Check our availability and see which of our oceanfront homes is calling your name — Cozumel is waiting for you!
